The Flight Free Podcast: Don't Look Up
Provided by: Flight Free UK|Published on: July 13, 2022|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Podcasts
Subjects: Science, Social Studies
Authors: Flight Free UK
Location: Earth
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This podcast discusses the recent 2021 film "Don't Look Up" and the importance of using storytelling to inspire climate action.
- Students will hear an interview with guests Peter Kalmus, a NASA climate scientist, and Franny Armstrong, a British documentary filmmaker, as they describe their reactions to the film, their personal actions, and their thoughts about climate grief and taking action.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This podcast will help students see the role that art, storytelling, and film can play in the fight against climate change.
- Students will learn about how comedy and satire can play an important role in helping teach others about climate change, deal with climate grief, and inspire change.
Additional Prerequisites
- It is recommended that all who are listening to this podcast see the trailer or read a summary about the movie "Don't Look Up." Many references to the film and its storyline are made throughout the podcast.
Differentiation
- Social studies, film, or science classes can use this resource to discuss the ways in which we can help people move past climate denial and inspire others to make changes in their own behaviors.
- Before listening, students can try to brainstorm how many films they have seen or heard of that address the topic of climate change. The podcast reveals this (surprisingly low!) number at the 4:30 mark.
- Other resources on this topic include this video about climate denial and this media literacy lesson plan.
The podcast serves as an example of how humor, narrative, and movies about climate change may promote social cohesion and climate action. To quell criticism from climate deniers, it is necessary to listen to this podcast. Also, it is advised to use this podcast when teaching to spur students for climate action.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
